The ACT Brumbies have named a settled lineup for this Sunday’s Super Round headliner against the Blues, with former Auckland centre Tamati Tua named to start against his former club.
James Slipper returns at loosehead alongside Lachlan Lonergan who is fit to play after being a late withdrawal in round one. Allan Alaalatoa will lead the team from tighthead prop, his 40th game as Brumbies captain.
23-year-old Rugby Australia Rookie of the Year Nick Frost continues in the second row beside Cadeyrn Neville.
Rob Valetini will wear the Canberra Daily sponsored number 6 jersey, with Rory Scott and Pete Samu joining him in the back row again.
Ryan Lonergan and Jack Debreczeni will start in the halves after steering the Brumbies attack brilliantly in the opening round 31-25 victory over NSW, with Len Ikitau occupying the outside-centre channel outside with Tua inside at 12.
Wagga Wagga product Corey Toole keeps his spot in the starting side after a stellar debut in Sydney, with Andy Muirhead on the other flank and Tom Wright at fullback.
John Ulugia proved class is permanent off the bench last week in Sydney with a 70-minute cameo and is named to cover at hooker this week with the impressive duo of Blake Schoupp and Rhys Van Nek bringing impact at prop.
Darcy Swain and Luke Reimer will bring plenty of energy at lock and backrow respectively, with Nic White and Noah Lolesio adding exceptional quality as the finishing halves pairing.
Ollie Sapsford completes the Brumbies matchday squad.
ACT Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham said the team is looking forward to challenging themselves against the Blues.
“It’s great for us to be in a position to have some continuity this early in the season and to reward some excellent performances in round one.”
“The recent history of this game is obvious, there’s been an edge about us this week which I’ve liked and we’re going down to Melbourne excited for the challenge.”
